Journalists in Taraba State have been urged to intensify efforts in countering misinformation and myths that could undermine the forthcoming Subnational Immunization Plus Days (SIPDs), scheduled to take place from December 13 to 16, 2025.
The exercise, which will be carried out across all 19 northern states, as well as Lagos and Oyo, targets children aged 0 to 59 months in an effort to strengthen immunity against polio.
During a one-day mobilization dialogue held Thursday for journalists, reporters, and social media influencers, in Jalingo, the state capital, the Taraba State Primary Health Care Development Agency, in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund, UNICEF, called for strong media engagement to ensure widespread public awareness.
Officials from UNICEF and the agency stated that all necessary arrangements had been finalized to ensure a smooth and successful campaign.
They further revealed that additional routine immunizations would be administered alongside the polio vaccine.
The organizers confirmed that sufficient vaccine supplies have been secured and that the exercise will cover every ward, village, and community across the 16 local government areas and the two Special Development Areas in the state.
Parents and caregivers were encouraged to make their eligible children available for vaccination. However, officials clarified that children who are ill would not be vaccinated until they fully recover.
A two-day mop-up exercise, as announced by them, will as well take place after the main campaign to reach children who were not vaccinated initially and to address any cases of non-compliance.
Taraba media urged to tackle misinformation ahead of polio immunization campaign
